WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW!

• 1 in 3 people over 65 and 1 in 2 over 80 fall at least once a year! 50% of people who fall are likely to fall again!
• 50% of people who fall will require help with everyday activities!
• Falls are the leading cause of injury death in older adults!
• Women fall more often than men!
• CDC research showed that U.S. death rate from falling has risen about 55% for the elderly since the 1990s.
• The elderly fear breaking a hip when they fall, but a government study indicates that hitting their head can also have deadly consequences: Brain injuries account for ½ of all deaths from falls.

PREVENTION IS KEY!!
EXERCISE TO PREVENT FALLS

Research shows that ankle and knee weakness is significantly related to repeated falls in the elderly. Maintaining good balance and leg strength is important in preventing falls. Be sure to consult with your physician or physical therapist before beginning any exercise program.

ARE YOU AT RISK OF FALLING?

• Prior falls
• Stroke
• Parkinson’s disease
• Osteoporosis
• Balance problems
• Not managing medicine/disease
• Lack of exercise and flexibility
• Denial of risk
• Dim light and glare
• Floor surfaces: slippery, throw rugs, clutter, loose wires
  
• Bathroom hazards: no grab bars, slippery tub or shower, low toilet seats
• Fear of falling and anxiety
• Depression and lack of caregiver support

MADY & MULES PHYSICAL THERAPY AND YOU!

• Work on ways to improve your balance
• Provide you with an individualized exercise program to promote strength & flexibility
• Develop safe transfer techniques (i.e. sit to stand, wheelchair, toilet, car)
• Work on ways to safely walk indoors and outdoors
  
• Assess & recommend home safety
• Educate yourself & your loved ones on ways to prevent falls

FALL PREVENTION DOs

• DO have your blood pressure checked on a regular basis
• DO see a physician or physical therapist if you feel dizzy when you get up from a bed or chair
• DO see an eye doctor if you experience vision problems
• DO exercise regularly
• DO remove throw rugs, extension cords, and clutter from your home
• DO tack down or tape carpet edges
• DO keep hallways clear from clutter
  
• DO store commonly used items on shelves between hip and eye level
• DO maintain good lighting in your home
  
• DO install night lights – especially in the bathroom
  
• DO use a non-skid bathtub/shower mat
  
• DO install handrails on stairs, in the shower, and beside the toilet
  
• DO keep a phone nearby at all times
  
• DO wear shoes with a non-skid sole
  
• DO be careful with the use of drugs that can affect thinking and coordination – such as sleeping pills and tranquilizers

FALL PREVENTION DON’Ts

• DON’T wax floors
  
• DON’T use a stepping stool
  
• DON’T wear loose floppy slippers and long robe
  
• DON’T sit in furniture low to the ground
  
• DON’T allow spills to remain on the floor
  
• DON’T wear high heeled shoes, backless shoes, shoes with a slippery sole, shoes that are too tight, or shoes that are too loose

PHYSICAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH FALLS

• Visual deficits
  
• Muscle weakness
  
• Impaired balance
  
• Dizziness and fatigue
  
• Acute illness
  
• Dehydration
  
• Cardiovascular impairment
  
• Seizures
  
• Vestibular disease
  
• Poor posture/postural control

ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS OFFERED

• Vertigo/Vestibular Disorders Rehabilitation Program
• C.A.R.E. Program of Maryland Cancer And Rehabilitative Exercise
• Sports Rehabilitation and Performance Training
• Pregnancy Program
• Adult Conditioning Program
• Custom Orthotics

For additional information regarding our clinic and numerous programs offered, visit us at:
www.MMPT-HCPT.com